Nutybite Blog Health Benefits of Chocolate

Health Benefits of Chocolate

It is not easy to find someone who doesn't like chocolate. While it's most known for its flavor, it's also an excellent source of nutrients when consumed in moderation. Here are 5 scientifically proven health benefits of dark chocolate:

  1. Highly nutritious

Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content has a good quantity of soluble fibre and minerals.
A 100-gram bar of 70–85% cocoa dark chocolate comprises:
  • 11 grams of fibre
  • 67% of the daily value for iron
  • 58% of the daily value for magnesium
  • 89 % of the daily value for copper 
It also contains a lot of potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.

  1. Cognitive function

Harvard Medical School researchers believe that drinking two cups of hot chocolate per day might help maintain brain health and decrease memory deterioration in older people. The researchers discovered that hot chocolate stimulates blood flow to areas of the brain that need it.

  1. Athletic strength 

According to research published in The Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, a small amount of dark chocolate may increase oxygen availability. For example, researchers in the United Kingdom discovered that cyclists used less oxygen when riding at a moderate pace after consuming dark chocolate and covered more distance in a two-minute flat-out time trial.

  1. Improves brain function 

Flavonols in dark chocolate positively impact brain function, including better reaction time, visual-spatial awareness, and stronger memory. Though research is ongoing, one reason for this may be that flavonols increase blood flow to the brain.

  1. Can protect your skin from the sun

Dark chocolate's bioactive ingredients may also be beneficial to your skin. For example, flavonols can protect the skin from UV damage, boost blood flow, and improve skin density and hydration. So if you're planning a beach trip, consider eating more dark chocolate in the weeks and months leading up to it. However, before abandoning your regular skincare routine favouring extra dark chocolate, consult with your doctor or dermatologist.

Milk Chocolate Dark Chocolate White Chocolate

Despite all the benefits, you still should be careful about the type of dark chocolate you choose. Sweet caramel options are not a heart-healthy diet selection. Keep an eye out for additional components that might add a lot of fat and calories. Second, there is presently no defined chocolate serving size to help you gain the cardiovascular advantages it may provide. We do know, however, that you no longer need to feel guilty if you indulge in a tiny piece of dark chocolate.

Dark chocolate is one of the main ingredients in our Paleo Chocolate Nutybite Granola Cluster. Despite chocolate, it is made with functional ingredients like a blend of nuts, seaweed, dried cherries, and cinnamon that are anti-inflammatory and loaded with vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of Omega- 3, iodine, and antioxidants for better gut health. Click here to try!

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